Modular electrochemical process for lactose conversion to lactobionic acid
A scalable electrochemical process converting lactose to lactobionic acid, suitable for food, pharma, and cosmetics. Utilizes cost-effective electrodes and mild conditions, compatible with unrefined lactose streams, offering sustainable and competitive production.
Overview
This innovative solution involves a modular electrochemical process designed to convert lactose into lactobionic acid and its derivatives, which are valuable in food preservation, biodegradable coatings, and specialty materials. The process is characterized by its use of cost-effective electrodes and mild operating conditions, allowing for scalability and compatibility with unrefined lactose streams. The approach is sustainable and cost-competitive, offering a clear path for commercial scalability.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes the unique chemical structure of lactose to access oxidation pathways unavailable to glucose or sucrose
- Electrochemical conversion that is clean, tunable, and energy-efficient
- Scalable process with the potential to handle over 13,000 tonnes per year
- Compatibility with dairy waste streams, particularly whey permeate
- Process optimization through advanced modeling and process optimization tools
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Future plans include detailed process modeling and techno-economic analysis (TEA) to optimize conversion efficiency, energy use, and cost. Partnerships with academic or industrial labs will be pursued for further validation and scale-up, aiming for a scalable, selective, low-waste process.
About Re-Du Company
RE-DU is a recycling technology company that has developed a patented process for the chemical deconstruction of mixed plastic waste. By breaking down diverse plastic types—such as PET, PC, PU, and PA—into monomers, the company enables the transformation of previously difficult-to-recycle materials into commercially valuable chemical products. This technology eliminates the need for costly sorting of mixed waste streams and offers an efficient, cost-effective alternative to traditional plastic management systems, which often rely on outdated processes that fail to address the majority of global plastic waste.
By providing a scalable solution for chemical recycling, RE-DU aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize the environmental impact of plastic pollution in landfills. The company serves as a partner for industries seeking sustainable chemical feedstocks and is contributing to the development of a circular economy. Supported by initiatives like the Innovation Crossroads Award and research collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, RE-DU is positioned to help transition toward a net-zero carbon society by proving that mixed plastic waste can be successfully converted into high-quality, reusable resources.
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